Michael Galligan
July 05, 2012
Michael James Galligan, 69, passed away on Thursday, July 5, 2012. Services will be held at Hamilton’s on Westown Parkway, 3601 Westown Parkway in West Des Moines. The funeral service will be held on Tuesday, July 10 at 10:00 a.m., with visitation Monday, July 9 from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Michael was born in Syracuse, NY, but grew up in Long Island, NY, parts of Illinois, and Appleton, WI. He graduated from Drake University and attended Law School at the University of California, Boalt Hall in Berkley, CA, graduating in 1967. Michael then served his country as a Captain in the US Air Force JAG Corps from 1968-1971.
He settled in Des Moines, IA, in 1971, establishing a successful law practice. He served his clients with honesty, integrity and grace. Despite all of his accomplishments he remained forever humble. Michael believed strongly in our civil justice system and the right of all people, no matter their background or status, to have access to our courts and to seek justice from a jury of their peers. Along the way he established changes to the law to better protect those who were harmed or suffered loss.
His family was always the center of his life. He loved and taught us all so much, most importantly to love and treat others with dignity and respect. He will forever be remembered through his ideals, carried forward by those he has left behind to carry on his legacy. We will love him forever. He lives in our hearts.
Michael is survived by his loving wife, Rozanne Bordenaro Galligan; his four children, attorney Joseph M. Galligan (Natalia) and their children, Declan, Roman, and Ivan; John D. Galligan, M.D. (Maria), and their children, Ella, Maggie, and Norah; attorney Brian P. Galligan and his children, Stella, Leo, and Scarlett; and attorney Mary M. Galligan (Christopher). He is also survived by his sister, Jackie Plochar; his older brother, Edward Galligan, and his younger brother, John Galligan.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to the Alzheimer’s Association of America.
Online condolences may be expressed at:
www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com
Roxanne Conlin
07/08/2012
It is hard to believe he is gone. He was the smartest lawyer I ever knew but more important than his intelligence, was his integrity. He always put his clients first and made some very good law in Iowa to protect the innocent injured. He was my favorite trial partner of all time. We tried some really great cases together. He never lost his nerve and he never lost his sense of humor There will never be another like him. We were partners for nearly 2 decades and friends for nearly 4. I will miss him. My deepest sympathies to all of you in your grief. Roxanne
Marc Harding
07/08/2012
The Galligan family has touched my life in so many ways over nearly forty years. Mike's passing is a sad event for all of us. My condolences to the family.
Dena and Larry Belfiore
07/07/2012
A note from Nebraska:
We met Mike at a dinner honoring Mike's son John and his future wife Maria. He was welcoming and delightful. Every time we had the opportuntiy to met with Mike and Rosanne we left with these same comfortable feelings. Mike's influence on John was remarkable. He too, is warm and welcoming with a wit that makes our sometimes tense family laugh.
Mike taught John how to be a wonderful father and his children love him like John loved his Dad.
We are sad because our loss is great.
Chris Landolt
07/07/2012
On behalf of my parents, Ray and Mary, and my brothers Shane and Drew, I wanted to pass along our condolences to your family. Your dad was a wonderful and kind man. May his soul rest in peace.
Michael Aasheim
07/07/2012
Galligan family,
My deepest sympathies. Many fond memories of little league days with your dad as opposing coach. What a competitive spirit he had! My prayers are with you.
Brianna Sayre Geiser
07/07/2012
Mike will be the hearts of many. You have all been in my thoughts and prayers during your struggle with this terrible disease. May you find peace in knowing his spirit lives on through you.